Vehicle Break-In Prevention Tips

All auto break-ins usually have one thing in common: there's something left in the car worth stealing. Most larcenies from cars are "crimes of opportunity" that could be prevented by taking some preventative steps. The Healdsburg Police Department recommends the following:

Lock Your Vehicle…This is as simple as it sounds, but you would be surprised at how much is stolen from cars from unlocked doors. Of course, locked doors don’t do much good if you leave the windows down, so roll up all windows.

Remove ALL Valuable from Your Vehicle…If you have to leave items in the car, put them out of sight and in the trunk. Always take personal items into your home when you park for the evening. Never leave anything visible in your car especially money, jewelry or electronics such as cell phones or laptop computers.

Park in a well-lit area…Light removes the cover of darkness which is important to thieves. When parking your vehicle at night, always take steps to park your vehicle where there is plenty of light. Motion activated lights are a great deterrent to thief’s and should be installed in your driveway.

Avoid parking on the street if possible…This will help to reduce the opportunity for thieves to access your vehicle. If you park your car in a carport or parked near your house, leave your exterior lights on throughout the night.

Report ALL Suspicious Activity…If you see a crime in progress or something suspicious, call the Healdsburg Police Department immediately at 707-431-3366. The most effective way to catch the person(s) responsible for thefts is for an observant neighbor or passerby to report suspicious activity.

Remember if you see something, say something. You can remain anonymous. You are not bothering us, you are helping your community. Together, we can and will make a difference. Stay alert and stay safe!

In the case of an emergency situation or crimes in progress please dial 9-1-1 immediately!

By following these tips you can greatly reduce the likelihood that you and your vehicle will be a victim of this type of theft.